Ontario's conservation…

Ontario's conservation authority system is a proven conservation/environmental success story in my view. Accordingly, I agree with the conservation authorities, municipalities and reputable conservation/environmental organizations which are opposed to the proposed regional consolidation. The restructuring proposal has been fast-tracked and introduced with zero public consultation. Details as to where the existing authorities are falling short were not provided.
A large merger is unnecessary. It would inevitably weaken local decision-making in watershed planning and protection of natural areas. The ministry's proposal emphasizes expedited development, but the focus should remain on the sustainable watershed management that is a fundamental responsibility of conservation authorities.
I agree with critics such as the Hamilton Conservation Authority and the City of Hamilton that have pointed out the issues mentioned in the Environment Ministry posting can be managed within the existing structure through clear provincial standards, shared technical systems, and sustainable predictable provincial funding across conservation authorities.
It is essential that the environment ministry engage meaningfully and collaboratively with affected municipalities, CAs and First Nations partners before advancing any consolidation proposal. I urge the province to shelve the proposed forced amalgamation.
It is time to strengthen, rather than consolidate, the existing CA system. I urge the ministry to commit the province to protect the accountability and expertise that our CAs are known for, and to ensure that each conservation authority will retain the local identity and community trust which encourages strong fundraising.